It's a great day to be a kid in Columbia," said Paul Resch, Janson Foundation director, during opening remarks at a ribbon cutting for a new playground in Janson Park. The ceremony, held in late September, officially opened the site for community use.

Constructed with input from students at nearby schools, including wish lists from fourth-graders at Park Elementary and Our Lady of the Angels schools, the new space features swings - something the kids asked for and something that was previously absent from any Columbia park - as well as climbing structures, slides and spinners. Dedicated play areas have been created for 2- to 5-year-olds and 6- to 12-year-olds.

The original playground in the park at the corner of Sixth and Cherry streets was installed in 2002. After more than 20 years of active use, it needed repairs and updates. The new playground project took three years to complete and was made possible with the help of a nearly $150,000 state grant and more than $170,000 in donations from businesses and individuals.

"The revitalized playground is more than just a place for children to play; it's a vibrant community hub that fosters connection and well-being among families and young people," said Columbia mayor Leo Lutz. "The investment in this new playground reflects our community's commitment to ensuring that children have a safe, welcoming place to enjoy the outdoors."

Lutz, like others who spoke at the ribbon cutting, grew up near the park and recalled playing there as a child.

"This is truly a park for all generations," he said. "While the kids play, the parents can sit and talk, and that's what we need - neighbors who know each other."

In addition to the upgrades, the project addresses several community needs, including providing a safe, inclusive space for children to play and grow; enhancing local recreation options for families and schools; promoting health, wellness and social connections in a centrally located park; and supporting the long-term vitality of the borough by increasing property values and fostering community pride.

"Local parks like this are the most popular places for outdoor recreation in our state," said Lori Yeich, recreation and conservation manager for the Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, who spoke at the ribbon cutting. "They strengthen our local economy, increase engagement, reduce crime and provide opportunities for outdoor activity. The investment in green space is not only important; it's invaluable."

Brightspeed, a fiber internet provider, donated $15,000 to the Janson Foundation for the park renovations.

"We are deeply grateful to dedicated partners like Brightspeed, who share our mission of enriching the lives of Columbia residents and strengthening the fabric of our community," Resch said. "From delivering reliable, high-speed fiber internet to local families and businesses to enhancing shared spaces such as the playground, these initiatives are vital to ensuring our town thrives and operates seamlessly."

Supporting the park project was important to Brightspeed, said Sabrina Anderson, local marketing manager.

"The new Janson Park playground is a welcoming place for families and individuals to come together, stay active and create lasting memories," she said. "Brightspeed's support reflects our dedication to Columbia, and we are proud to be a part of efforts that enhance the quality of life for all residents and help uplift the community. We look forward to witnessing the ongoing success and joy this facility brings to the area." 

Members of the community also stepped in to support the playground project through a personalized brick program. The bricks will line the walkway connecting the two play areas.

To learn more about the playground initiative, visit http://www.jansonfoundation.org.